[Zonal anatomy of the prostate using endorectal MRI]

The development of an endorectal surface coil now permits a partial study of the anatomical model developed by McNeal. Axial and coronal views, which were used to establish the model can be obtained in a short period of time with fast spin echo sequences. Axial views are performed along the proximal urethra and coronal views are performed along the axis of the distal urethra and the ejaculatory ducts. Anatomical boundaries of the transitional zone are well delineated on axial views, illustrating the concept of "inner gland". The prostatic capsule and the neuro-vascular bundles, pathways of extension of the cancer out of the prostate are also well delineated. Coronal sections allow a very good anatomical study of the caudal junction of the vas deferens and the seminal vesicles (the so called weak space), pathway of tumor extension to the seminal vesicles. Differences in signal of the prostatic zones make the outer gland cancers very conspicuous as well as some transitional cancers which can show, in some cases, an homogeneous hyposignal.